One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in the Netherlands and Germany With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Rotterdam and Düsseldorf

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in the Netherlands and Germany has in store for you! You will be staying in Amsterdam for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

De Pijp is a fantastic place you can explore today in Amsterdam. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Amsterdam-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Make a stop at Vondelpark. This extraordinary park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Van Gogh Museum located in Amsterdam for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Rijksmuseum. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Sarphatipark. Visitors usually appreciate the serene features of this park.

Bring home unique finds from Amsterdam's bustling shopping hub, P.C. Hooftstraat. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique high-end stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, P.C. Hooftstraat offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in the Netherlands and Germany, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Amsterdam.

Don’t miss out on dining at Eye Film Museum, a top-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Ambassade, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Palmyra Syrian Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Café Oporto is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is 't Aepjen. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in the Netherlands and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence Utrecht in the Netherlands. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Rotterdam, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Amsterdam, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Utrecht. This drive usually takes around 52 min.

Dom Tower Of Utrecht is a worthwhile monument we recommend visiting today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour to Utrecht Botanic Gardens, an idyllic botanical garden that’s well-regarded in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rotterdam. This car ride takes around 53 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Erasmusbrug, a popular monument in Rotterdam. Explore its enchanting features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Maritime Museum Rotterdam. This frequently visited maritime museum is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Markthal Tours is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most breathtaking food market in the region.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Rotterdam’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Rotterdam. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Harvest Cafe & Bakery, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Little V Rotterdam is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Dudok. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Rotterdam tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Mendoza, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Wunderbar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out De Witte Aap. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across the Netherlands and Germany. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Düsseldorf in Germany. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Düsseldorf where you'll spend 3 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

When you’ve had your share of Rotterdam, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Düsseldorf, Germany. Your travel time is around 2 hours 31 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Hofgarten, a beloved park known for its romantic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen, an often recommended art gallery.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Burgplatz and uncover the details of this visually striking public square. Make sure to also explore Pegeluhr, an increasingly popular monument. For your last stop, consider Rheinpromenade, a stunning boardwalk that many travelers find worth the detour.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Düsseldorf. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Germany's delectable cuisine at one of Düsseldorf's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Don’t miss out on dining at Brewery Schumacher, a top-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Brewery im Füchschen, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The ASH Düsseldorf. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Engelchen. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Bar Cherie offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Auberge Rock Pub, another top-rated bar in the area.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in the Netherlands and Germany! Enjoy your evening in Düsseldorf to the fullest!

On day 5 of your European tour in the Netherlands and Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Cologne, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Cologne in Germany. Düsseldorf remains your base for 2 nights more.

Don’t miss Schildergasse today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

When you’ve had your share of Cologne, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Düsseldorf. Your travel time is around 47 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge, an underrated point of interest that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Cologne Cathedral and admire its majestic features.

When you’re ready, continue to Museum Ludwig, an up-and-coming museum beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Lindt Chocolate Museum, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Rheinboulevard, a visually striking place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that Düsseldorf boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of the region.

Savor the flavors at Radisson Blu Media Harbour Hotel, Düsseldorf, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Cafe Extrablatt Düsseldorf beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Coffee Fellows. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Düsseldorf tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Bar Studio 1, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sakura Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Engel Rockbar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

Greet day 6 of your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. On today's agenda, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Maastricht in the Netherlands. You will return to Düsseldorf for your remaining 1 night in the city later today.

A top thing to do today is to explore Binnenstad, a must-see neighborhood in Maastricht. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Düsseldorf, Germany. This car ride takes around 1 hour 20 min.

Savor the day by heading to Basilica Of Saint Servatius, an increasingly popular church that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Natural History Museum Of Maastricht, where you can soak in the heritage-rich surroundings.

Next, explore Helpoort, yet another curiosity-inducing place to see in the area. After the historical landmark, make time to go to Stadspark. This awe-inspiring park is well worth the visit. Lastly, head to Caves Zonneberg, a worthwhile cave system you won’t want to miss.

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Düsseldorf. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Germany in a new light.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Im Goldenen Kessel, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Düsseldorf at DORMERO Hotel Düsseldorf, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Konditorei Heinemann. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Düsseldorf tonight.

As the night falls in Düsseldorf, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Germany. Today's main destinations are Zuideinde in the Netherlands, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Amsterdam. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for the Netherlands! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Zuideinde may take around 2 hours 35 min. Upon your arrival in Zuideinde, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Next, make your way to Museumboerderij 't Olde Maat Uus, another highlight in Zuideinde.

Set your GPS to Giethoorn and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 6 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Giethoorn beckons with new experiences!

Next, make your way to Kunstgalerie Afrika, another highlight in Giethoorn.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Amsterdam.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in the Netherlands and Germany, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Amsterdam.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Café Loetje, a highly-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Moon, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at d'Vijff Vlieghen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.

Keep the evening going at Bar Bitterbal, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Twenty Third Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Louis Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

As the night falls in Amsterdam, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.